Aid for vulnerable witnesses

Support to witnesses will include making better us of video links

Vulnerable witnesses are to get more support during criminal trials under new moves by police in County Durham.

The Vulnerable and Intimidated Witnesses (VIW) scheme, will expand current support programmes, by introducing home visits to those considered most in need.

The project will concentrate on children and adults with mental or physical disabilities.

The force says the project will ease the stress of going to court.

Witnesses will get additional help and support with giving evidence via a TV link or behind a screen in court.

Other measures will see the removal of wigs and gowns by court officials and lawyers.

Since November 2001 experienced victim support volunteers have provided free advice for people required to give evidence at a magistrates' or crown court.

'Big commitment'

Durham Police say the new measures will make the experience of going before the court a less daunting process.

Clare Hodgson, the co-ordinator of the scheme, said the project would offer comprehensive support and guidance at a time when witnesses were at their most vulnerable.

She said: "Going to court to give evidence is often a big commitment for someone to make.

"It can be a very stressful undertaking and the Vulnerable and Intimidated Witnesses project is all about reducing that level of stress and helping a child or adult deal with the experience.

"Once it is agreed someone is in need of special measures a home visit by a trained volunteer would be offered.

Organising childcare

"The volunteer can give guidance on what a witness can expect when they go to court and talk through any related issues or concerns they have.

"The visit also provides an opportunity to offer help in resolving related problems, for example, organising childcare.

"An arrangement will then normally be made for a pre-trial visit to court so the witness can familiarise themselves with the surroundings.

"And after the trial itself another home visit would be made to talk through the outcome, any sentence handed out and its implications."

The Durham project follows an announcement in June by Justice minister Cathy Jamieson, who introduced "common sense" measures to protect vulnerable witnesses.